13 Tools to Help You Become a Master Marketer

Last year, I spoke to author, Entrepreneur.com writer and social media expert Starr Hall. We discussed who the best people were to target and how to use all of my platforms and relationships to get the best coverage and promotion.

In talking about people to target, Starr said:

"Make sure they are master marketers."

That really got me thinking about people in my networks who have a great brand, credentials and credibility, degrees and accomplishments-but aren't engaged in their own self-marketing and promotion. They are not taking the lead on branding themselves through online communities, email marketing or at least a Facebook page.

Advertisement

In today's business paradigm, combining the two worlds (in-person and online) and all of the platforms that afford us free access to people all over the world is a must. With so many solopreneurs, businesses of one, consultants, authors and trainers out there, being a master marketer is about the most important skill you can have in your toolbox as a businessperson today.

Here are 13 tools I have used to become a "master marketer." These are proven ways to your build brand awareness and credibility and grow your relationships with your personal and professional communities.

LinkedIn is the professional platform with unparalleled potential to introduce yourself to and interact with top people in your field or related fields.

Facebook is the most diverse platform for engagement and interactivity.

Blogging is the best way to build Klout and authority in your area of expertise.

Email marketing can help you grow relationships with your permission-based community.

Article writing, either on your own blog or for other key blogs and websites, builds your credibility.

Texting used properly can also be a "real time" marketing tool.

Video is the best way to show people your vibe, personality and how you present yourself.

Workshops brand you as an expert in your field and also give you a platform to present yourself.

Volunteering is the side door into many opportunities and align you with things you are passionate about.

Networking online and in person can open up amazing opportunities with people all over the world or right in your community.

Google+ is fast becoming another diverse tribe and community building platform.

Blogtalkradio podcasting has opened more doors for me than just about any other platform.

All of these tools can greatly impact your brand awareness, sales, customer service, customer retention and your overall professional success and advancement. Many of these tools can be used in a very integrated way. You can start with a few key platforms and make them work for you, then add more as you get comfortable.

Hire a consultant, take a class, pay your kid to help you - but get going on making the commitment to become a master marketer for 2012!

Here are some "master marketers" Ad Age chose as great examples of this in action, who have built strong brands, consistent branding and big buzz. Who are some of the master marketers that you emulate?